I think you're assuming a lot more about the writer than the writer assumed about the pest control guy. There's very little reason to doubt his reading of the situation, as I'm sure he's encountered it many, many times.
Also, holy crap this entire thread is full of smug heteronormative privilege. HN, I expect better.
Also, holy crap this entire thread is full of smug heteronormative privilege. HN, I expect better.